Living with a disability often presents challenges that can reshape a person’s entire way of life. For Suki, who acquired a brain injury after a stroke, these challenges affected every aspect of his mental and physical wellbeing. Before this life-altering event, Suki had been an active man, working full-time as a scaffolder. He enjoyed socializing with friends and family, leading a rewarding and independent life. His job kept him on his feet and he thrived on the sense of purpose that came with it. Suki’s world was one of work, social gatherings and the simple joys of being out and about.
All of this changed in an instant when Suki suffered a stroke that left him with paralysis on the right side of his body. This once energetic, capable man was suddenly unable to walk or even perform basic daily tasks without assistance. The drastic change in his physical abilities took a heavy toll on both his mental and physical health. Confined to a single room in their rented granny flat, Suki’s life became a stark contrast to the freedom he had once enjoyed. The small space and lack of accessibility meant that moving around, even within his home was a struggle. He became bound to his bed for most days, with carers having to shift furniture just to manage his personal care and transfers between bed and wheelchair.
“It’s had such a huge impact on his life, he couldn’t move around the property at all, let alone get in and out for community access,” Suki’s partner, Anni, shares, highlighting the mental and emotional strain that came from losing his independence. Simple tasks like getting out to see friends or go shopping were no longer possible. The shift from his previously involved and social lifestyle to one of confinement in a cramped, inaccessible space weighed heavily on Suki, amplifying the frustration and isolation he felt daily.
Their breakthrough came when Suki’s support coordinator and occupational therapist introduced them to the concept of Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). After exploring their options, the couple made the life-changing decision to move into an AccessAccom SDA apartment. “Our old place was not accommodating to any of Suki’s needs at all,” Anni notes, contrasting the constrained, unsafe environment they had endured with the spacious, brand-new, purpose-built apartment they now call home.
The transformation has been profound. Suki now has the freedom to move around his home, enjoying level access and automated doors that allow him to venture out to the courtyard or sit on the balcony to soak up the sunshine. This newfound independence has even extended to daily activities like helping out in the kitchen—something Suki hadn’t been able to do for four years. “He comes into the kitchen, fills the kettle, and plugs it in so I can make his coffee,” Anni beams, adding that Suki’s curiosity in his new environment has also spurred improvements in his speech.
The move to their new SDA apartment has been a “game changer,” not just for Suki but for Anni as well. With 24/7 on-site shared support available through Leora Healthcare, she no longer has to stay home around the clock to care for him. “I can go for a walk to get fresh air or pop to the local shops alone now. It’s helped me regain my independence, too.” she shares.
Beyond the accessibility within their home, the location of the SDA apartment in Bankstown has provided the couple with proximity to vital services and amenities. With the doctor, shopping centre and train station all within walking distance, even small excursions like window shopping or a trip to the doctor are now part of their routine. Suki, who was once housebound, can now enjoy a sense of freedom that had long been out of reach.
Reflecting on their journey, Suki’s partner offers heartfelt advice to others who may be considering the move to SDA living: “Go for it! It’s an absolute game changer. The benefits are amazing—not just for the participant but for their families too.” For Suki, the shift to accessible living has been more than just a change of address. It has provided a pathway to reclaiming his independence, offering him—and his partner—a new lease on life.
Pictured: Anni & Suki